11/13/2017 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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d Board of Selectmen Minutes November 13, 2017 APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS Water Quality.Presentation, Brian Howes, University of Massachusetts: (continued) It was disclosed that meteorological conditions may be affecting the algae bloom which has made a significant impact on the water quality. The results of the summer of 2016 study indicate similarities with the exception of the large phytoplankton bloom which may have been spawned by low flows due to the drought. Sources of the bloom will be further evaluated. The study has revealed that both the Waquoit Bay and Popponesset Bay Estuarine Systems are highly nitrogen enriched showing impaired nutrient related water quality over the past decade. It is projected that estuarine conditions will decline further until nitrogen management is implemented. Most systems in this regional will be required to have some wastewater(sewering). Nitrogen management within Popponesset Bay has begun with the maintenance of the flow through the tidal inlet,propagation of oysters and capping of the Town of Mashpee landfill. Watershed nitrogen management planning is also underway to reduce major sources of nitrogen which primarily include septic system discharges. Popponesset in the long term is improving and the specific effects of shellfish will be further reviewed. The main basins of Waquoit Bay and Popponesset Bay continue to show moderate to high water quality. However, the lower Waquoit Bay and lower Eel Pond are showing decline. There is no evidence of shellfish loss with the algae blooms in the Mashpee estuaries. The Mashpee Water Quality Monitoring Partnership has grown to be one of the most successful programs in the region, and has proven to provide high quality data for the tracking of the bays to determine compliance with the DEP in meeting TMDL's for these systems. (Enclosure) NEW BUSINESS Appointment to Waterways Commission: In response to advertisement,two letters of interest were received from Stephen F. Mone and Perry F. Ellis, former Harbormasters of the Town of Mashpee to serve on the Waterways Commission. There was no recommendation from the Waterways Commission for the vacant seat. Motion made by Selectman Cotton to appoint Stephen F. Monne to the Waterways Commission. Motion seconded by Selectman Cahalanc. VOTE: Unanimous. 5-0. Roll Call Vote: Selectman O'Hara,yes Selectman Cotton,yes Selectman Sherman,yes Selectman Cahalane, yes Selectman Gottlieb,yes Opposed, none